By Judy Newell
Mexico News
Marriott Signs New Cancun All-inclusive Resort
Marriott International announced the signing of Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, which joins its growing all-inclusive portfolio and is expected to open in late 2022.
Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun is owned and managed by Blue Diamond Resorts and will join the All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. The portfolio currently includes nearly 30 resorts in eight locations across the Caribbean and Latin America.
The 1,049-room Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun includes a water park, theater, bowling alley, unique water attractions and various culinary options at a dozen on-property restaurants and nine bars.
International News
Buenos Aires to Rio Tour for LGBTQ+
Newly launched LGBTQ+ specialist tour operator Chillimix has added an escorted adventure tour ‘Journey to Rio.’ The 12-day tour begins in Buenos Aires and ends in Rio de Janeiro.
The first three days will be in Buenos Aires with free time to explore and a guided city tour. The itinerary also visits Iguazú Falls before several days in Rio. The last three days are spent to chill in the beach town of Buzios located just outside of Rio.
Book Marriott Hotels up to 25 Percent Off
Every Wednesday, Marriott Bonvoy Escapes releases a slew of 25-percent-off deals on more than 1,000 Marriott hotels and resorts across the U.S., Canada, Central America, and the Caribbean. The deals are good for the upcoming month—ideal for those looking for a last-minute getaway.
You must book by the following Sunday to cash in. Not a Bonvoy rewards member? You can still partake and get 20 percent off. Even better: earn up to five free nights at Marriott properties when you sign up for the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless credit card.
Cruise News
Costa’s Newest Ship Sale Start from US$399
During the La Dolce Vita sale enjoy low rates for sailings on Costa newest ships—Costa Firenze, Costa Venezia, Costa Smeralda, and the newest flagship Costa Toscana. Each ship includes bars, restaurants, gelaterias, pools, a spa, an aqua park, a theater, and the Squok club for kids.
Sister ships Costa Smerlada and Costa Toscana also feature the Volare Skywalk and Colosseo entertainment venue. Sisters Costa Firenze and Costa Venezia, meanwhile, offer mini golf, the rope garden adventure park, and an art gallery.
Cruises on these ships during the La Dolce Vita sale start from US$399 per person and include up to US$200 onboard credit.
This special closes at midnight on July 31, 2022.
Virgin Voyages Launches Second Ship
The second ship in Sir Richard Branson’s party-like, adults-only line Virgin Voyages hit the seas for the first time on March 18. It sailed around the U.K. before positioning in its home port of Barcelona, with itineraries through Spain and Europe.
Dubbed Valiant Lady, the new vessel is a sister ship to the line’s Scarlet Lady, which debuted in 2021. Passengers aboard Valiant Lady can expect to feel the same ultra-modern vibe in everything from the sleek deck furnishings to the two Massive Suites, which come with their own turntables and hot tubs.
Among the ship’s other amenities are a record shop and tattoo parlor—just like on Scarlet Lady, as well as more than 20 dining options.
Aviation News
Tickets on Sale between Norway and USA
Norse Atlantic Airways has opened ticket sales for flights between Oslo, Norway, and:
• New York (JFK) from July 4—1 daily flight (from NOK 995/US$129)
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) from June 18—3 weekly flights (from NOK 1,497/US$162)
• Orlando (MCO) from July 5—3 weekly flights (from NOK 1,497/US$162)
• Los Angeles (LAX) from August 9—3 weekly flights (from NOK 1,797US$195)
Prices reflect one-way fares with taxes included.
Deal of the Week
Amazing Bali and Singapore
Discover two of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia with this 13-day small-group tour of Bali and Singapore! Rice paddy terraces, spiritual sites, breathtaking landscapes, and famous landmarks await you on this magical journey.
Price from US$1,799; single supplement available starting at US$699 per person.
2022 dates: July 6 and 13; August 3; September 7 and 21; October 5 and 19.
Tour Highlights
- Enjoy a relaxing vacation as you unwind on the powdery white-sand beaches of Bali
- Discover the breathtaking green rice paddies of Puputan and Antosari in Northern Bali
- Watch a traditional Kecak Dance Performance in front of a magical temple in Ubud
- Explore Singapore and discover the fascinating districts of Chinatown and Little India
- Visit Thian Hock Keng, the oldest Chinese temple in Singapore dedicated to a Goddess
- Marvel over the magnificent diversity of the unique architectural styles of Singapore
Inclusions
- Regional and international roundtrip airfare from various USA and Canada gateways
- 10 nights superior accommodation on a twin sharing basis with daily breakfast
- Arrival and departure airport transfers; transportation in AC deluxe vehicle
- Sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary
- 2 full day tours and 1 half-day tour in Bali
- Service of English-speaking local guide
- Air taxes and fuel surcharges; all local applicable taxes
- Guaranteed departure; small group tour; comfort level—easy
Exclusions
- Items of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities
- Optional tours and any items not mentioned as included
- Visa fees, if applicable; Travel insurance
Judy Newell, an international travel consultant for over 50 years, heads Perfect Journeys and specializes in unique travel experiences to destinations around th eworld. She custom designs journeys that are tailored to suit client’s interests, physical abilities, and budgets. Please contact Judy for further information on Ttrave News topics, Mexico, and international tfravel. Cell phone 415 111 8765; Vonage 949 300 3682; email at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net. Her office is in Rancho Los Labradores on the highway to Dolores Hidalgo.
Sources: Journey Mexico, Inspiring Vacations, Travel Mole, The Navigator, and Dunhill Vacations.
